New Testament · character
Barnabas
"Son of encouragement" — a co-worker who built people up.
Barnabas vouched for Paul when he was still distrusted right after his conversion, and embraced the discouraged Mark again. He was a generous worker called the "son of encouragement."
A Bridge-Builder
When everyone feared the converted Paul, Barnabas brought him to the apostles and vouched for him (Acts 9). Without him, even Paul's ministry would have struggled to begin.
Giving a Second Chance
He was so committed to giving failed people a second chance that he parted ways with Paul over Mark, who had abandoned the first journey midway. Later, Mark would write a Gospel.
Related verses
- Acts 11:24"He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith."